Drents Museum

Located in the charming city of Assen, the Drents Museum stands as a beacon of cultural heritage and artistic excellence in the Netherlands. Housed on the historic grounds of the former Maria in Campis monastery, this museum offers an intriguing blend of ancient history and modern exhibitions, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

The History of Drents Museum

The origins of the Drents Museum date back to 1854 when it was initially established as the Provincial Museum of Antiquities. Its humble beginnings saw the museum's collection housed in a single cabinet within the government building, which was part of the Maria in Campis monastery. Over time, the museum's collection expanded, necessitating a move to the new building of the State Archives in the early 20th century.

In 1964, the museum acquired the Ontvangershuis, and a decade later, it relocated to the provincial house. The museum continued to grow, incorporating the Drostenhuis in 1978 and the Abbey Church in 1982. In 1996, it was officially renamed the Drents Museum, becoming an independent foundation. The museum's growth was further bolstered by sponsorship from the Nederlandse Aardolie Maatschappij (Dutch Petroleum Company) from the 1980s onwards.

Architectural Marvels and Modern Expansion

Despite the spatial constraints within the old monastery complex, the Drents Museum underwent a significant transformation in 2007. Architect Erick van Egeraat designed an innovative underground museum wing, expanding the exhibition space just outside the former monastery grounds. This new wing, topped with a beautiful museum garden, seamlessly blends the old with the new. The museum's new entrance, situated in the former coach house of the Drostenhuis, was inaugurated by Queen Beatrix on November 16, 2011.

In 2010, a state-of-the-art depot was opened on an industrial estate in Assen, providing storage for approximately 90,000 objects and artworks. This facility was the first in the Netherlands to feature an oxygen-free storage room, significantly reducing the rate of decay. Despite initial challenges with leaks in both the new and old buildings, the museum has undertaken extensive measures to address these issues, ensuring the preservation of its invaluable collections.

Exploring the Collection

The Drents Museum boasts a diverse and extensive collection that delves into the prehistoric history of the Drenthe province. Visitors can marvel at a range of artifacts from the Funnel Beaker Culture, including the world's oldest boat, the Pesse Canoe. The museum is also home to several well-preserved bog bodies, such as the Yde Girl and the Weerdinge Couple, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's ancient past.

In addition to its archaeological treasures, the museum features a rich collection of figurative art, particularly Northern Realism, showcasing works by notable artists such as Henk Helmantel, Matthijs Röling, and Sam Drukker. This collection, comprising hundreds of works, is one of the most significant in the Netherlands in this genre.

In 2017, the museum acquired the collection of the Foundation for Fine Arts around 1900, which had been housed there since 1983. This collection includes works by prominent artists such as Chris Lebeau, Vincent van Gogh, and Jan Toorop. Visitors can explore specially designed period rooms in the Ontvangershuis, offering a glimpse into the lives of affluent Drenthe families in centuries past.

Special Exhibitions

The Drents Museum is renowned for its captivating special exhibitions, drawing visitors from around the globe. One of the most successful exhibitions was the Terracotta Army (February 2 - August 31, 2008), part of the Go China! Assen – Groningen event, which attracted 353,000 visitors. Other notable exhibitions include The Golden Age of China (November 16, 2011 - April 15, 2012), the Dead Sea Scrolls (2014), and the American Dream (2017-2018), a joint exhibition with the Kunsthalle Emden.

In recent years, the museum has continued to host groundbreaking exhibitions, such as Iran – Cradle of Civilization (2018), which won the Global Fine Art Awards' public prize, and Viva la Frida! – Life and Art of Frida Kahlo (2021-2022), inaugurated by Queen Maxima. The museum's commitment to showcasing diverse cultures and historical periods ensures that there is always something new and exciting for visitors to discover.

Conclusion

The Drents Museum is more than just a repository of artifacts; it is a dynamic cultural institution that brings history and art to life. Whether you are captivated by prehistoric relics, fascinated by figurative art, or drawn to the allure of special exhibitions, the Drents Museum offers a rich and rewarding experience. As you wander through its halls, you will be transported through time, gaining a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage that shapes the Drenthe province and beyond. A visit to the Drents Museum is not just an exploration of the past; it is an invitation to connect with the timeless stories that define our shared human experience.